Miniplate and K-Wire Fixation for Type Vb Jersey Finger: A Case Series of Nine Patients

J Hand Surg Am. 2024 Aug;49(8):799.e1-799.e6. doi: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2022.10.009. Epub 2022 Nov 9.

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to present the results of plate and K-wire fixation for type Vb jersey finger.

Methods: We used a miniplate system combined with a K-wire to treat nine cases of acute type Vb jersey finger injury. The fracture healing time, functional outcomes, and complications were assessed.

Results: The follow-up time ranged from 13 to 44 months. All fractures healed within 7 weeks. The mean active range of motion was 70.6° (60° to 80°) for the distal interphalangeal joint and 105° (100° to 110°) for the proximal interphalangeal joint. All affected fingers were able to move actively with no pain, and there was no nail deformity. Two patients with the longest radiographic follow-up showed a congruent joint surface with no degenerative change at 44 months.

Conclusions: Miniplate and K-wire fixation offers adequate fixation strength for the early initiation of active exercises so that a good functional result can be achieved.

Type of study/level of evidence: Therapeutic V.

Keywords: Jersey finger; K-wire fixation; plate fixation.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Bone Plates*
  • Bone Wires*
  • Female
  • Finger Injuries* / surgery
  • Finger Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Finger Joint / surgery
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal* / instrumentation
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal* / methods
  • Fracture Healing* / physiology
  • Fractures, Bone / diagnostic imaging
  • Fractures, Bone / surgery
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Range of Motion, Articular*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult